The Carolina Panthers signed cornerback Nick Hixson to the practice squad, replacing Frank Kearse who was added to the 53-man roster in the wake of Ron Edwards being put on season-ending injured reserve.

Hixson, 23-years old, is technically listed as a cornerback, but really he fits the mold of ubiquitous 'defensive back' after spending time at cornerback, and both safety positions for the New Orleans Saints. Used solely on special teams, the 6-0, 189-pound undrafted free agent didn't find a long-term spot on the roster.

He hails from tiny Hillsdale College, a Division II school in Michigan, with a student body of just over 1,400. In his three years as a starter, Hixson was named All-GLIAC two times (that's all Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic conference, in case you were wondering). Hixson is also an incredibly smart guy, earning a major in biochemistry.

During his final season at Hillsdale, he totaled 36 tackles, two interceptions, nine passes defended -- while also catching 25 passes for 389 yards, and returning 27 kicks for 559 yards. He does a little bit of everything, and that's a nice luxury to have in a practice squad player.